‘One gastro attack’ away from being forced to close
HOSPITALITY venues across the Tweed are feeling the ripple effects of a widespread worker shortage.
It comes after Tumbulgum Tavern was forced to close its kitchen during the holiday rush.
The worker shortage, which appears to extend well beyond the Tweed, has resulted in some venues offering six-figure salaries to head chefs to help fill the gap. Dolphins Harbourside Hotel Tweed Heads manager Michael Cahill said that like most venues they were facing an incredible challenge recruiting staff, both qualified and unqualified, in jobs from cooking to cleaning.
“We’ve spent money on the advertising platforms. It is a hit and miss,” he said.
“A lot of people have found alternate work options where they get their nights and weekends.”
Mr Cahill said staff members have had to rally to keep the hotel open.
“We’re one gastro attack off closing …,” he said.
“We’re working together as a team to make sure we stay open serving good food and good beer.”
Club Tweed CEO Gerard Robinson said it has been more difficult to attract workers over the last year. “Cost of living and lack of properties available to rent and the cost of properties to rent have contributed (to the shortage),” he said.
“We’ve had staff that have accepted positions with us and were relocating but were unable to find anywhere to live.”
Councillor Warren Polglase said a lot of young people haven’t taken on the difficult job of hospitality
“Everyone’s enjoying themselves while you’re waiting tables or in the kitchen,” he said.
“At one stage school kids would break their neck to get a job at Macca’s (McDonald’s).
“These jobs set them up in their future life. It is all about communication … you communicate with all walks of life”.
Riverview Hotel Murwillumbah manager Tony Foran said his venue was doing okay when it came to staffing, but he was aware of shortages.